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Connecting Communities: The Inaugural Regional Summit

Connecting DSM Communities

August 23, 2024

Greater Des Moines (DSM) has a history of working together across the public, private and nonprofit sectors and across jurisdictional boundaries. We set an example that others look to emulate, and it has contributed to significant success and momentum that has helped DSM stand out.

The inaugural Regional Summit scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 3, 2024 at the Iowa State Fairgrounds represents a pivotal moment to accelerate our connectivity. This event came to life with the focus of creating the opportunity for leaders from across our 11-county region to connect, learn and collaborate on forward-thinking solutions.

Conversations with our Investors, Members, Affiliate Chambers and stakeholders have consistently highlighted a strong desire for increased collaboration between rural, urban and suburban communities. The Regional Summit is a meaningful step toward advancing this dialogue, building connections and laying the groundwork for lasting partnerships.

Why Attend the Regional Summit?

Announced at The Partnership's 2024 Annual Dinner, the Regional Summit is designed to foster collaboration and connectivity. We all have both unique and common challenges and opportunities across our communities. This Summit will be a platform to share insights, to listen and to learn from others who are dedicated to making our region an even better place to live, work and grow. The goal is to work together to advance Greater DSM as a top place for economic development and talent development.

Throughout the Summit, we will explore key issues that impact all of us: economic development, workforce challenges, infrastructure, education and more. We will hear from thought leaders and innovators who are making a difference in these areas, and we will engage in meaningful discussions that will inspire new ideas and strategies.

One of the exciting aspects of the Regional Summit is the opportunity to amplify the stories of success in DSM. This is a chance to celebrate these stories from communities and to collectively learn from them. It is also a chance to explore shared challenges that we can work together to address.

The Regional Summit will conclude with The Partnership's annual Economic Impact Awards, a 40-year tradition that has been honoring the contributions of local companies to our region's economic and community vitality. These awards are a testament to the hard work and dedication of businesses across DSM. They remind us of the importance of recognizing and celebrating the achievements of our local companies, especially in times of change and uncertainty.

Whether you are a business, civic or community leader, we encourage you to participate. Let’s take this opportunity to move our region forward, together.

Please join me in registering at DSMpartnership.com/regionalsummit.

The Greater Des Moines Partnership Board is made up of Greater Des Moines (DSM) leaders and industry experts. The Board is united in driving economic growth with one voice, one mission and as one region.

David Stark

David Stark is Chief of Government Affairs & Philanthropy at UnityPoint Health and 2024 Greater Des Moines Partnership Board Chair.